Myelopathy

Myelopathy results from a progressive narrowing of the spinal canal, a degenerative change that typically comes with aging.

While it usually signals an advanced stage of cervical spine disease, it affects the entire spinal cord. The development of bony growths called bone spurs exacerbates the condition by pressing on or squeezing the nerve roots on the spinal cord, which in turn interfere with nerve function.

Myelopathy affects men earlier than it does women. Because it usually develops slowly and at a time in life when people are expected to move more leisurely, it can be difficult to detect.